Gemological Institute of America

Known for more than 70 years as the world's leading educator to the gem and jewelry industry, the GIA offers tours through the irresistible world of diamonds, gemstones and jewelry. Visitors have an opportunity to learn about the Institute's world-renown educational programs, explore gem and jewelry exhibits, and visit the Richard T. Liddicoat Gemological Library and Information Center, an 8000 square foot facility. The most outstanding sight on the grounds is the Tower of Brilliance. a 55-foot tower resplendent with a one-ton crystal octahedron-the largest of its kind in the world, which was custom-designed and donated by D. Swarovski & Company, the world-famous Austrian crystal manufacturer. As the sun dissappears each day, shimmering crystals in a rainbow of colors light up the evening sky by the eternal rotation of the Tower of Brilliance above GIA's main entrance. (Tours are by reservation only)